USA HSAAs Match Preview

Santiago, CHILE -- The USA High School All-Americans (HSAAs) have made 10 changes to the starting line-up for game two against Chile. The teams will square off today in the capital city of Santiago.

Following a 24-17 win on Sunday, the HSAAs are using the 32 man squad to the full. The bench is also a new line-up with seven players that didn't feature in game one.

Oliver Drew and Joe Whalen are the returning starters at lock. Drew led the team in tackles and Whalen wasn't far behind. Their work rate in defense was outstanding and Whalen (Gonzaga senior) will captain the side. "I've been very impressed with the leadership in the squad. We've created a leadership group and Joe is one of a core group that will captain the team on tour." said Head Coach Salty Thompson.

The back row starts Zach Bonte (Back Bay) at six, who begins UCLA in the fall along with juniors Nick Gadbaw (Camas, Washington) and Brad Luvender (Katy, Texas). The starting forwards will be an even split between seniors and juniors.

Michael Reid (Warrenton) and Ben Cima (Gonzaga) make up the 9-10 pairing. Both are talented sophomores supported by another 10th grader in United's Calvin Whiting. These young men have the skills, game understanding and commitment to really excel over the next few years.

Zach Webber (United, Utah) and Joe Kelly (Greenwich HS) made up the center pairing while Brad Shaw (Columbus) makes his tour debut on the wing. Nuu Aiava, (Keauka'a Sharks) who scored two tries against Chile on Sunday, returns to the right wing along with Anthony Salaber (Dixon) at full-back. Salaber had some outstanding counter attacking runs in game one while Nuu is a gifted finisher.

The HSAAs and staff were invited to the residence of the U.S. Ambassador to Chile, Alejandro D. Wolff on Tuesday morning. Ambassador Wolff gave the team a warm welcome and will supports the team at Wednesday's 3pm game